Kevin’s blog
Expert analysis and the latest news from award-winning journalist Kevin Richert.
At the Statehouse next week, focus turns to K-12 funding issues
Two legislative committees will convene next week to take a closer look at how Idaho funds its schools.
Analysis: Two new committee chairs jump into the spotlight
As education and tax debates loom for the 2017 legislative session, much of the drama will unfold in Rep. Julie VanOrden’s House Education Committee and Sen. Dan Johnson’s Senate Local Government and Taxation Committee.
GOP stays the course in leadership elections
On Thursday, GOP leadership will pick a new chair for the House Education Committee — and fill other committee assignments.
Otter hints at tough debates over K-12 funding, tax cuts
The governor restated his support for Idaho’s five-year plan to boost teacher salaries. However, he said, “This is going to be the toughest year.”
West Ada breaks ground on new alternative school
For nearly a decade, Pathways Middle School’s students have been crammed into portable buildings.
Education secretary urges end to corporal punishment in schools
Idaho law neither condones nor forbids corporal punishment. A spokesman for state superintendent Sherri Ybarra said he was unaware of incidents in Idaho, and described the issue as one of local control.
Democrats outspent Republicans in runup to legislative elections
Democrats tried to protect seats in competitive legislative districts, and make perhaps make inroads in battleground districts. Instead, Democrats lost four seats on Nov. 8.
Boise will seek $172.5 million bond issue in March
The bond issue would replace several old schools, add a new elementary school in Southeast Boise, and bankroll a range of other projects. Tax rates would not increase.
Post-election school incidents: How widespread are they?
Since Donald Trump’s election Tuesday, teachers and students across the country have reported a possible surge in on-campus racist incidents.
State’s projected budget surplus continues to swell
The projected $132.5 million surplus could set the stage for a lengthy legislative debate over priorities — such as K-12 spending or tax cuts.